The ongoing rainy season brings a variety of impacts, from benefits for the agricultural sector to challenges in public health. One disease that often becomes a major concern during this season is Dengue Fever (DHF). This disease poses a serious threat every year, especially in tropical regions like Indonesia. High humidity and stagnant water caused by rain create an ideal environment for breeding Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, the main vector of dengue virus spread.
Stagnant water that forms in various places, ranging from gutters, open water containers, to used objects such as cans or old tires, becomes a place for mosquitoes to lay eggs. Female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes only need a small amount of water to lay their eggs, which will then hatch into larvae within a few days. The mosquito’s rapid life cycle means its population can increase dramatically during the rainy season, increasing the risk of dengue transmission.
The spread of the dengue virus occurs when an infected mosquito bites a human. The virus enters the bloodstream through the mosquito’s saliva and begins to replicate in the body. Symptoms of DHF usually appear within four to ten days after the bite, characterized by high fever, severe headache, joint pain, and red spots on the skin. In more severe cases, the disease can cause plasma leakage, bleeding, and even death if not treated immediately.
The rainy season also extends the life span of mosquitoes. The high humidity during this season provides ideal conditions for mosquitoes to remain active in biting and spreading the virus. Not only outdoors, Aedes aegypti mosquitoes can also breed inside the house, especially in uncovered or not regularly drained water containers, such as bathtubs, dispensers, and pet drinking places.
This situation is exacerbated by people’s low awareness of the importance of keeping the environment clean. Many people do not realize that even small puddles can serve as breeding grounds for mosquitoes. In addition, the habit of piling up garbage or leaving used items around the house without being properly managed also increases the risk.
Global climate change is also affecting the pattern of dengue spread. Warmer temperatures and more frequent rainfall create a longer rainy season cycle. This allows mosquitoes to breed more and accelerates the cycle of dengue virus spread. The combination of climate change and lack of effective prevention measures has caused the number of dengue cases to increase every year in many areas.
The government and various health institutions have taken steps to minimize the risk of dengue spread. A mosquito nest eradication program that involves the community is one of the main efforts to reduce the mosquito population. Fogging is also conducted in areas with high cases to kill adult mosquitoes. However, the success of this program is highly dependent on the active participation of the community.
In addition, education on the importance of maintaining environmental cleanliness must continue to be promoted. People need to understand that prevention is more effective than treatment. Recognizing the early symptoms of DHF and seeking immediate medical attention is also key to reducing the severity and mortality of the disease.
However, government efforts are not enough without the full support of the community. Each individual has an important role in preventing the spread of DHF, especially by maintaining a clean environment around the house. By regularly cleaning up standing water, covering water containers, and recycling used items, we can break the life cycle of the Aedes aegypti mosquito.
Author: Wawan Febri Ramdani Nursing Lecturer at ‘Aisyiyah University Yogyakarta
